As Nigeria joins the world in commemorating World Youth Skills Day, the Institute of Advanced Vocational and Technology Education of Nigeria has renewed calls for the compulsory inclusion of skill acquisition in the country’s secondary school curriculum.
Speaking during an event to mark the occasion-rescheduled from July 15 in honor of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, the Registrar of the Institute, Dr. Ene Nwannaji, emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria’s education system to adapt to the demands of the digital era.
Dr. Nwannaji, who also runs the Starlight Education Centre in Madalla, Niger State, advocated for the Senate to pass legislation making vocational and AI-enabled skills training a mandatory component in schools.
“The world is going digital, and we will be doing ourselves and the nation and the generations on board disservice if we shield the youths from acquiring AI-enabled skills,” he warned.
The Registrar outlined the benefits of skill acquisition, noting that it not only empowers young people for employment and entrepreneurship but also enhances national economic growth and job creation.
He called for a dual-track education system where students gain both academic and practical competencies.
He also urged a collaborative approach between lawmakers and his Institute to embed skill acquisition into the national education framework, describing it as vital for Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
“By working together, we can create a more skilled and employable workforce, driving the country’s economic progress,” he said.
Dr. Wannaji appealed to the media to amplify this initiative and sustain public discourse around it.
“Let the press do what they know how to do and ensure that project skill acquisition is not just a lawful duty, but a patriotic duty,” he added.
Engr. Jibo Idris Talib, who chaired the Local Organising Committee (LOC), also lent his voice to the campaign, urging the government to encourage skills development as a way to harness the creative energy of Nigerian youths for economic transformation.
The event was attended by key stakeholders in education and technology, including Mrs. Titilayo Olayande, Director of Quality Assurance at the FCT Education Secretariat; Igweonu Kenechukwu, CEO of SMNK Limited; and Mrs. Nwankwo Nkechinyere Angela of the FCT Department of Science and Technology Information (DSTI).
Also in attendance were notable dignitaries such as the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Governor of Zamfara State, who both praised the Institute’s role in advancing youth skills training.
